Cradle Of Culture

A traffic-stopping structure in London has been created with the help of Kingspan Insulated Panels. Celebrated architect Daniel Libeskind is responsible for the unusual design of the building.

The design of the new Post Graduate Centre, known as Orion, at the London Metropolitan University incorporates stainless steel cladding to create a striking and ever changing surface.

Architectural panels supplied by Kingspan Insulated Panels have been used underneath the cladding to maintain the airtightness and stability of the envelope.

Celebrated architect Daniel Libeskind is responsible for the unusual design of the building, which comprises three intersecting elements that integrate into the circulatory pattern of the university.

While the building is decorative and visually striking, it is the tile support systems underneath the stainless steel rain screen, which performs the valuable practical function.

Kingspan Insulated Panels KS1000 RW through fixed panels were installed on the roof along with a joint detail offering simple and effective installation.

Providing guaranteed 100% reliable thermal performance and insulation continuity, RW panels eliminate the problem of cold bridging to help buildings comply with all energy conservation recommendations and legislation, including Part L of the Building Regulations.

The support system provides an air, watertight and weatherproof inner skin.

RW panels are pre-engineered and assembled off-site allowing for a single fix installation.

This process can help reduce build times by 50%.

The use of KS1000MR microrib profiles also provides the necessary weatherproofing for the overcladding.

The building's design is so eye catching that construction work was recently halted when a motorist called police to report that the building was falling down.

The road was closed but it was soon discovered that the unusual angles of the building made it appear to overhang the main road.

Steve Phillips of contractors, Coverite, maintains the panels have a distinct role to play: "Although the Kingspan Insulated Panels are not visible to the public, they nevertheless perform a vital role in ensuring the weatherproofing and watertightness of the structure.

They are used to clad the 10,000sq ft in situ concrete building and act as a support to the unusual overcladding." The Orion project is an iconic landmark and has had an enlivening impact on the wider urban context, particularly on the image and accessibility of the University.

The Post Graduate Centre is located on Holloway Road.

London Metropolitan University was formed in August 2002 following the merger between the University of North London and London Guildhall University.

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